Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc. is seeking a Lead Controls Engineer in Chicago, Illinois, to support industrial automation projects. This role combines PLC programming with hands-on involvement during installation, startup, and commissioning.

The ideal candidate will work closely with installation teams, assist with equipment installation, and coordinate site activities. Strong mechanical aptitude and documentation skills are required.

Travel is about 50%, with multi-week site rotations and time at home between assignments.

Qualifications

• Experience in PLC programming and controls engineering.
• Practical mechanical aptitude and hands-on installation experience.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support project execution in automation and material handling environments.
• Assist with equipment installation and commissioning.
• Coordinate subcontractors and lead technical discussions.

Skills

PLC programming

Controls engineering

Mechanical aptitude

Strong documentation skills

Effective communication

Tools

ASi communication networks

Ignition

Database platforms

ERP/MES

Job description

Seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to support project execution within industrial automation and material handling environments. This role combines PLC programming and controls engineering with strong hands‑on field involvement during installation, startup, and commissioning activities.

The position requires a practical mechanical aptitude and the ability to work closely with millwrights, electricians, and installation teams in the field. Responsibilities may include assisting with equipment installation, cable routing, pneumatic systems, and overall commissioning support.

Additional exposure may include:

• Industrial paint and coating systems
• Robotic and reciprocator applications
• ASi and industrial communication networks
• ERP/MES integration
• Ignition and database platforms
• Conveyor systems, lifts, and material handling equipment
• Washer systems and thermal processing operations

This role also includes site leadership responsibilities such as coordinating subcontractors, leading technical discussions, supporting project decision‑making, and maintaining a professional on‑site presence. Engineers may also provide remote troubleshooting and customer support as needed.

The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, capable of working independently in field environments, and interested in incorporating emerging technologies such as machine vision and camera systems into automation solutions. Strong documentation skills and effective communication across trades and customer teams are essential.

Travel is approximately 50%, with project schedules commonly involving multi‑week on‑site rotations followed by time home between assignments.